Happy 69th Independence Day, Cambodia! The nation’s Declaration of Independence was signed on this day in 1953, marking the start of its sovereignty after a century of foreign rule. Today’s Doodle celebrates the resilience and pride of the Cambodian people and honours the late King Father Norodom Sihanouk, who was wholeheartedly devoted to achieving independence.
History
France started controlling Cambodia in 1863. After being colonised around 80 years, King Norodom Sihanouk began claiming independence from France in 1949. In 1953, he was successful to gain full independence, and France agreed to decolonise the whole country. Due to this accomplishment, Cambodian citizens viewed him as “the father of independence (ព្រះមហាវីរបុរសជាតិ – ព្រះបិតាឯករាជ្យជាតិ)”, which depicts that he was the hero of the country. He helped make the country develop rapidly.
Every year, Independence Day is a very special and happy day for the whole nation. It portrayed the Khmer success over colonisation. It is celebrated in many places around the country, and the absolutely crucial one takes place at Independence Monument (វិមានឯករាជ្យ) in Phnom Penh.
On that day, all the leaders and representatives of state organisations and public departments must participate and celebrate the formal ceremony in the morning. Usually the roads around the Independence Monument are closed to provide the space for the ceremony. The whole ceremony is broadcast on national television and radio. Other channels also broadcast it from the National TV. Therefore, the people around the country can watch it.
Every state palace is decorated with some slogans related to the independence of Cambodia, and the lights. At night, there is firework in the Chatomuk River (ទន្លេចតុមុខ) located in front of the Royal Palace. Because it is the holiday, there are a lot of people going out to see that event in front of the Royal Palace and Chroy Changvar area, which is opposite to the Royal Palace.
The morning ceremony features the raising of the national flag and the lighting of a memorial torch at the Independence Monumenty, presided by the King of Cambodia.
